2019 07 15 Reflection 597 (Bro. Johnson Khalkho OP on Mt.10:34-11:1)
Like us on facebook at / dominicanministriesgoa write to us: [email protected] Website: www.dominicans.in Whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple will gain their reward. My dear brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ. Some words in this gospel today are shocking. Jesus says that He came not to bring peace but a sword. This seems to be odd and strange. But it is a moment of challenge where Lord wants us to put God our first priority and accept the consequences. What did he mean by the word sword? He means to say that it is the spiritual struggle we have in our daily life and to realize how important it is to remain as His disciple. To become a good disciple is not a simple task or a shortcut rather it is a daily struggle against sin and evil. We need to become aware of what is to be done and make efforts for the same. I mean to say we must take our stand for Christ and accept the responsibility for our spiritual life. Jesus clearly says in the gospel of St Jn chapter 16 verse 36 "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. When we read further, a beautiful sentence helps us to reflect our life more seriously that is "Whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple will gain their reward". Dear friends, through the sacrament of baptism we became the members of Christ, being a member it is not only about proclaiming and teaching the word of God rather it is necessary to cultivate the virtue of humility of heart and to respect the dignity of each and every human being, no matter how lowly or insignificant they are. To put this in simple words, Christian community is true by our way of life where we remain true to the faith and live as children of God, members of one family. God is love, his love unites and bestows all with true and lasting dignity. By these we will be witnesses to Christ therefore He urges us to learn from Him who is gentle and humble of heart. Today we also celebrate the feast of St. Bonaventure who was an Italian medieval Franciscan scholastic theologian and philosopher. Who by his teaching and preaching experienced the divine presence of God and held on to Christ alone, especially in times of trials and turmoil. As a result received grace of the Holy Spirit and the love of Christ, which helped Him to be compassionate and loving for the people in the world. My dear brothers and sisters today's world lacks dignity of human person as a result no peace and harmony. We hear cries of the people everywhere. It is a challenge for all us to think good of all, to consider all as our brothers and sisters. This is the sword that Jesus has brought. One that cuts my selfishness egoism so that I can freely look at others and be their brother or sister. Amen
